Table 3.

Summary of key findings: acceptability and demand

Area	Themes	Sub-themes
Acceptability		To what extent do health providers accept SST?
	Of SST for control of malaria in pregnancy	SST is good because it is important to detect malaria early in pregnancy, pregnancy is risky time; SST should be continued; SST is a good policy but only if it is in fact being carried out and the quality is improved
	Of RDTs vs microscopy	RDTs are not always accurate; RDTs are easy to use and a good alternative if there are no lab services or for use in the field; RDTs are useful but we may still need to confirm result with microscope
	Of DP	Most participants reported no challenges with DP use; DP was not always immediately effective DP can produce mild side effects in some women (nausea, vomiting, dizziness)
Demand		To what extent is SST perceived to have positive effects, to be used, and demanded by PW?
	For SST by pregnant women (perceived by health providers)	Awareness about screening is low and some pregnant women don’t go for screening despite being advised, e.g. transportation costs; lack of motivation to attend health facilities; women question why they are being tested when they have no complaints